Marriage and Relationship Resources

Core Differences in Ways of Maintaining Emotional Stability
This article, by Dr. Brent Atkinson, discusses five common differences in coping
styles (or ways of maintaining emotional stability) that most often underlie relationship
gridlocks, and identifies how partners who have these differences resolve them successfully.

Habits of People Who Know How to Get Their Partners to Treat Them Well
Part I-Dealing with Differences
Brent J. Atkinson, Ph.D.
All partners in long-term relationships feel dissatisfied with or disapproving of
each others' viewpoints or actions at various times. Evidence suggests that some
people know how to handle such moments in ways that cultivate respectfulness and
receptivity in their partners. Others react in ways that make it very unlikely that
their partners will be able to genuinely care.

Studies suggest that the ability to react effectively when feeling upset is not
optional-it is a must for anyone who hopes to have a satisfying intimate relationship.
In this article I'll introduce six habits that are characteristic of people who
are skilled at eliciting respect, caring and cooperation from their partners. I'll
describe how people who know how to get their partners to treat them well go about
doing it. To make it as relevant to you as possible, in some places I'll discuss
how you can implement these habits in your relationship with your partner.

Resources to Find a Marriage Therapist in Your Community

Call your insurance company (an 800 number is on your insurance card) and ask for
a referral of a marriage therapist in your network